Varadkar says there is no plans for a pre-Christmas general election and the Government’s focus is on Brexit

The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said the Government’s main focus is on Brexit negotiations and not on a pre-Christmas general election.

Mr Varadkar also said negotiations on renewing the current Confidence and supply agreement are moving forward and Fianna Fail have agreed to pass legislation which relates to the budget.

The Taoiseach who said the latest Brexit deal is the only way to avid a hard border, also said he is hopeful an agreement can be made and an announcement will be made in a few weeks.

It is understood both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil are keen to avoid a general election as both parties leaders say an election would not be in the best interests of the Irish people given the current circumstances surrounding Brexit.